Child Support

Question 1

Who pays child support?

Answer 1

Generally, non-custodial parents

Question 2

When does the obligation expire?

Answer 2

When the child turns 18 (if out of high school) or if still in high school, until graduation or age 19, whichever comes first

Question 3

How is the amount determined?

Answer 3

Statutory guidelines determine presumptive amount that serves as starting point
* Court looks at number of children and parents’ combined monthly incomes, then allocates the total amount between parents according to incomes
* If court wants to deviate, it may but must make findings on the record to justify the deviation

Question 4

Standard for modification

Answer 4

Change in circumstances (i.e., most common is change in salary of non-custodial parent)